Match report by: Nick Gage

Team: (3-1-3-2-1)  Jerry Spencer; Shaun McNeill; Simon Geeves; Claudio Grandi; Nick Hemus; Will Harvey; Gary Sykes; Nick Gage; NIck Jones; Ian Kitteringham. Subs Al Byrne; Al Harknett; Olly Grundy.

Goals: Nick Hemus (pen)

Yellow cards: Gary Sykes

MoM: Rob Wildig

DoD: Gary Sykes

Nipper's Last Game

This game presented a challenge for a number of reasons: after 3 consequective losses it was important to get back into winning ways; Nipper deserved a bit of a send off and the whole team had to dig out our A-Z's to work out where the hell the game was being played. Most of us managed to get to the game on time with the exception of Mr Hemus (and his merry band) who felt the need to turn up flying the Crusading Tour Banner!

Once we managed to get the team on the field we started well playing high tempo hockey. A load of other stuff happened and then in a moment of confusion the referee accidently awarded a decision our way in the form of a highly contentious penalty flick. Then the real drama started.

Taking on the responsible role of captain I confidently placed the ball on the white spot. Turned and prepared.... then I saw Nipper. With a nonchalant flick of his head I could see that this would be a battle I would lose. This was his big chance to finally score the goal that had eluded his Second Team record. What followed could be described as a triumph for mind-games, others may talk about fate - I think I'm going to settle on generosity. Generosity from the Sutherland goalkeeper. Even before the ball had been struck the keeper had picked his side, dived left and was trying to get up when Nipper firmly struck the ball approximately exactly where his right pad should have been. However, in the age old adage - there are no pictures on the scoresheet and the scoreline read 1-0. The duck had been broken at the last chance and Nipper was off on a mazy celebratory run that started off half in disbelief and half joy that rivalled Adebayor scoring against the Gooners at Man City.

Half-time came and went and the rest of the game consisted of lots of Easts pressure and a last ditch equaliser for Sutherland - bugger.

Thanks for the memories Nipper, see you back in the team soon!